Hardoff Implements 'Canly Local Inventory' Across Over 300 Stores to Optimize 'Treasure Hunting' Experience Digitally

Canly Inc. (Headquarters: Shinagawa, Tokyo) announced that 'Canly Local Inventory,' an optional feature for its store information management and analysis service 'Canly Store Traffic,' has been implemented by Hardoff Corporation (Headquarters: Shibata, Niigata).

This implementation allows for the real-time display of second-hand inventory for each store on Google Search™, Google Maps™, and Google Shopping™. By deploying this across its various nationwide reuse stores, Hardoff aims to build a 'search online, discover in-store' reuse experience. The company is developing a foundation that will be favored by AI agents, supporting the creation of next-generation store visit experiences.

Background of Implementation

Hardoff handles a wide variety of second-hand goods, from musical instruments, audio equipment, and computers to junk items. As these are often one-of-a-kind, determining 'whether the desired item is currently in stock at that store' is a major concern for customers deciding whether to visit.

Previously, verifying stock required calling the store or visiting in person. By opening up this vast inventory data to Google Search, Maps, and Shopping, Hardoff aims to create an environment where customers can still find their unique 'finds,' even in an era where AI agents explore for products on behalf of users.

Key Factors and Expected Effects

- Bridging Digital and Physical Stores to Create Unique Visit Experiences Provides an environment where customers can confirm in advance if the 'find' they were looking for is at their nearby Hardoff via Google platforms. This reliably leads high-intent users looking for unique items to physical stores, strengthening the 'online-to-offline' path in the reuse industry.

- Building a Foundation 'Favored by AI' for Both Sales and Purchasing Services In the era of 'agentic commerce,' where AI agents explore, propose, and complete purchases or reservations, Hardoff will correctly place its detailed inventory and store information on Google Search, Maps, and Shopping. By being accurately cited by AI, the company establishes its presence as the top-of-mind choice for reuse.

- Reduction of Stock Inquiries and Improved Quality of Appraisal and Customer Service Drastically reduces phone inquiries for stock verification. By reallocating time to 'purchase appraisals,' expert customer service, and productization—the core of the reuse business—store operations quality will be further enhanced.

Comments from the Implementing Company

Ms. Risa Ito, Link Channel Promotion Office Manager, Hardoff Corporation:

'The "Link Channel" strategy promoted by Hardoff connects the Internet in a circle around physical stores. Our greatest strength is the "unique product assortment of each store," reflecting the dedication of the community and staff. Every second-hand item is one-of-a-kind; our stores are packed with that excitement of a one-time encounter.

To cherish this unique charm while reducing the burden on the field, we introduced the inventory integration service "Canly Local Inventory" for digital visualization. We provide real-time discovery of "this item is in this store right now" on Google platforms. We will continue to expand the target stores. By setting up a foundation for the AI search era, we will maximize the charm of our locally-rooted stores. With state-of-the-art technology, we will continue to deliver treasure-hunting-like reuse experiences to our customers.'